Kerala PWD to Start Projects Only After Land Acquisition, Says Minister

The Kerala Public Works Department (PWD) will now initiate public works projects only after completing all statutory procedures, including land acquisition, Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer announced on Thursday.

This decision marks a significant shift in policy, aiming to prevent delays and financial losses caused by incomplete projects. "No public works project will be taken up henceforth without fulfilling all statutory requirements," the Minister stated during a review meeting of PWD officials in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts.

Ending the Practice of Premature Tenders

Minister Basheer highlighted that tenders for projects had often been floated before securing necessary permissions, including land acquisition. This practice, driven by external pressures, had forced officials to launch projects prematurely, leading to stalled works and unproductive expenditure. "This will no longer be allowed," he asserted.

Addressing Delays and Losses

The Minister pointed out that incomplete projects have caused "significant financial losses" to the government and inconvenienced the public. To mitigate such issues, he directed officials to conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and address challenges effectively. He also assured full support to honest and hardworking officials in the department.

The move is expected to streamline project execution, ensuring that public works are completed on time and within budget.

Source: The Hindu